Is the Beverage to Blame? Sports Drinks May Not Be Causing Those Cavities

Destroy. Bad. Worst. Decay. These were the words splashed across the Google results page after we searched,“sports drinks and teeth.”

But are sports drinks really the villain?

Though it’s true they can harm your teeth, the same is true of your habits. When it comes to sports drinks, don’t be a sore loser. Stop blaming the beverage and take responsibility for your smile. A few mistakes we all may be making:

Remember — water is (almost) always the winner. Walking on the treadmill while reading US Weekly does not warrant a sports drink. Unsure of which beverage is best for your athletic activity? Use this guide to determine your drink destiny.

• Consuming Them Wrong

While it’s true that sugared drinks can cause cavities, how and when you drink makes a huge difference. Make sure to take a swig of water after sipping on sports drinks. The water helps to wash away plaque-causing bacteria. You can also try slurping with a straw to minimize teeth contact.